Inflatable Full Body Elevator for Leg Support and Circulation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing devices for lounging do not provide adequate support and mobility for the lower extremities, leading to physical strains, poor blood circulation, and discomfort, especially in semi-upright positions, and are often not portable or cost-effective.
Innovation Solution
A portable, inflatable full body elevator with a sloped backrest and horizontal butt rest, featuring a leg and foot support system that can be selectively inflated, constructed from lightweight, waterproof, and durable materials, allowing for multi-positioning and easy use both indoors and outdoors.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If traditional pillows or blankets are used for leg and feet support, then the device is soft and comfortable, but it does not provide firm support and lacks mobility
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses an inflatable structure with air chambers to provide firm support while maintaining comfort. The air pressure can be adjusted to achieve the desired level of support, and the inflatable design allows the device to be collapsed for easy storage and mobility.
2Reliability
If medical wedges or inclined mattresses are used, then firm support is provided, but the device is too expensive for average consumers
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the physical state of the support structure from solid (foam wedges) to inflatable (air-filled chambers). This allows the device to provide firm support when inflated while using inexpensive materials and simple construction, making it affordable for average consumers.
3Reliability
If known lounging devices are designed for specific areas, then they provide specialized support, but they are not portable and cannot be moved to different locations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs an inflatable design that can be collapsed and expanded. When collapsed, the device is compact and portable for easy transport to different locations. When inflated, it provides the necessary support function, thus achieving both portability and reliability.
4Ease of operation
If semi-upright lounging position is adopted without proper leg support, then less restrictive and more comfortable positioning is achieved, but physical strains and poor blood circulation occur
Solution Approach 1:
The patent provides targeted support specifically for the legs and feet through separately inflatable chambers designed to cradle and elevate these body parts. This local support allows the upper body to remain in a comfortable semi-upright position while preventing strain and improving circulation in the lower extremities.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The device provides comfortable and stable support for the lower body, alleviating strain and promoting effective air exchange, while being safe, portable, and affordable, thus enhancing recreational and therapeutic lounging experiences.
Implementation Method 1
an inflatable upper body elevator having a sloped backrest panel and a generally flat, horizontal butt rest panel extending from the backrest panel; and an inflatable lower body elevator having a leg portion with a leg support panel sloping from the butt rest panel
Data Source
AI summary
A full body elevator includes an inflatable upper body elevator having a sloped backrest panel and a generally flat, horizontal butt rest panel extending from the backrest panel; and an inflatable lower body elevator having a leg portion with a leg support panel sloping from the butt rest panel and a foot portion with a foot support panel selectively inflatable and extendable with respect to the leg portion.